Guide to Being Four Weeks Pregnant

When's the best time to spread the news to others? With about 10 percent of pregnancies ending in miscarriage within the first 12 weeks, many couples wait until then to share their joy. If you can't keep a secret, confide in a close friend. Or, just let it out. It's really up to you.

Week four is the time to make that first doctor's appointment. If you don't have an obstetrician, ask others for referrals. Determine if you want a doctor in a group or solo practice, and if you prefer a man or woman. Schedule an appointment just to get to know the doctor and ask questions. Will he give you the time you need? Does she share your beliefs regarding medications during delivery? How does he feel about cesarean sections?

Keep Reading Below

You should drink plenty of fluids during pregnancy, but stay off the alcohol. That goes for tobacco and potentially harmful medications as well. You might want to consider taking a vitamin, as pregnant women need more of almost every vitamin and mineral than other women do. And, if you exercised regularly before pregnancy, it's usually safe to continue. If you didn't, be careful not to overdo it.

You'll hear a lot of conflicting information regarding what foods to eat, the activities to avoid and even whether or not to color your hair. It's best to rely on your doctor's advice for what is right for you and to lessen concerns. However, there are some things you shouldn't worry about and we'll talk about them on the next page.